Periodontal Therapy
Treating gum disease to protect your teeth and health
Periodontal Therapy in South West Rocks, Kempsey & Coffs Harbour
Noticed your gums bleeding when you brush, or looking a bit red and swollen? Maybe your dentist has mentioned gum disease, or you’re concerned about receding gums. Or maybe your fresh minty breath keeps turning bad.
These signs are worth paying attention to, and the good news is that gum disease can often be managed effectively when caught early.

MANAGING GUM DISEASE
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and may affect your overall health. Periodontal therapy aims to remove infection, reduce inflammation, and support gum health through deep cleaning and ongoing care.
Patients from South West Rocks, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, and throughout the Mid North Coast trust our friendly team here at South West Rocks Dental for comprehensive gum disease treatment and prevention.
WHAT PERIODONTAL THERAPY HELPS WITH
BLEEDING OR INFLAMED GUMS
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss, or that look red and swollen, are signs of gum disease. Periodontal therapy aims to reduce inflammation and can help support healthier gums with proper treatment and home care.
DEEP POCKETS BETWEEN TEETH AND GUMS
As gum disease progresses, pockets form between your teeth and gums where bacteria collect. Deep cleaning removes this bacteria and calculus buildup, aiming to help the gums reattach more closely to the teeth and reduce pocket depth.
PREVENTING TOOTH LOSS AND HEALTH COMPLICATIONS
Untreated gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It’s also been linked to other health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Periodontal therapy aims to control the infection and can help protect both your teeth and overall health.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING YOUR PERIODONTAL THERAPY
COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT
We measure pocket depths, check for bone loss using X-rays, and assess gum health thoroughly.
DEEP CLEANING (SCALING AND ROOT PLANING)
We clean below the gum line to remove bacteria, calculus, and infected tissue from tooth roots.
SMOOTHING ROOT SURFACES
We smooth the tooth roots to help gums reattach and make it harder for bacteria to collect.
ONGOING MAINTENANCE PLAN
We schedule regular maintenance cleanings and review home care techniques to manage the condition long-term.
Risk & Recovery
Possible Risks
- Gum sensitivity and discomfort can occur during and after treatment
- Gums may recede slightly as inflammation reduces, making teeth appear longer
- Deep pockets may not fully resolve with treatment alone and require ongoing management
- Some tooth sensitivity to hot and cold may develop as gums heal
Recovery
- Tenderness and sensitivity settle within a few days to a week after treatment
- Gums may bleed slightly when brushing initially but this should improve with proper care
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods for a day or two if gums feel tender
- Continue gentle brushing and flossing as directed, even if gums are a bit sensitive
TRANSPARENT PRICING, NO SURPRISES
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FAQ's: Periodontal Therapy
Is gum disease reversible?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care. Once it progresses to periodontitis (advanced gum disease), the damage to supporting bone and tissues can’t be fully reversed, but treatment can help control the infection and prevent further damage.
The key is catching it early and staying on top of regular maintenance. Many people successfully manage periodontal disease for years with consistent professional care and excellent home hygiene. Your commitment to ongoing care makes a significant difference.
Will the treatment hurt?
We use local anaesthetic to numb the area during deep cleaning, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. You might feel some pressure or vibration, but not pain. After treatment, your gums may feel tender for a few days, similar to the feeling after a regular cleaning but a bit more noticeable.
Over-the-counter pain medication usually manages any discomfort well. If you’re anxious about treatment, let us know. We can discuss options to help you feel more comfortable throughout the process.
How often will I need maintenance cleanings?
Most people with periodontal disease need maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months rather than the standard 6-month interval. This more frequent schedule aims to help keep bacteria levels under control and prevent the disease from progressing further.
Your specific maintenance schedule depends on how severe your gum disease is, how well you maintain your home care, and how your gums respond to treatment. We’ll work out a schedule that’s right for your situation.
YOUR PAYMENT PLAN OPTIONS
*Subject to approval, eligibility criteria, terms and conditions. Final repayment price may vary based on individual treatment plan and duration.
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CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR GUM HEALTH?
Early treatment can make a real difference.
Call us on 02 6566 6070 or book online.







